Historic Corkscrew Display Crosses Construction Finish Line

Visitors to eventually drive under display on way to parking lot and museum entrance

The National Roller Coaster Museum and Archives (NRCMA), the world’s largest collection of historic amusement artifacts, has completed construction on its largest exhibit to date: a complete, corkscrew inversion from the retired Canobie Corkscrew.

“This museum is no longer a dream. It is a reality being built right now,” said Jeff Novotny, President of the NRCMA Board of Directors. “This project represents one of the biggest logistical challenges we've faced, and thanks to the indispensable support of our industry partners and fans, the vision for this facility has rapidly transformed into a concrete, powerful reality.”

Originally debuting in 1975 as the second modern looping roller coaster built by Arrow Development, Chicago Loop at Old Chicago park would make several stops across the country before being permanently retired at Canobie Lake Park in New Hampshire in 2022. There, a portion of track was carefully dismantled and shipped to the museum for its final display.

The corkscrew inversion was shipped to the museum thanks to donations from American Coaster Enthusiasts, Amusement Today, Canobie Lake Park and Jeff Novotny. On-site logistical support was provided by Rocky Mountain Coasters / Larson International. Engineering was provided by Dan Peak at Peak Thrills Engineering. It was re-assembled in Texas with donated labor from Northwest Coasters and re-painted in its final livery with the assistance of Baynum Solutions.